Charlotte Hoops Challenge Day One: Top Performers

Andrew Wiggins, 6’7, SF, Huntington Prep (WV), 2013- The top player in the nation has seen better days, but still gave Charlotte fans the excitement they were looking for. His shot wasn’t falling and his team struggled for the majority of the game, but there were certain moves that he made that were simply special. The Canadian was unstoppable slashing to the rim, wreaked havoc on the offensive glass, and left the entire gym on the edge of their seats each time he touched the rock. Things were a bit closer than expected, but this was the type of game that Huntington Prep will need to build upon if they hope to achieve their ultimate goal of winning a national championship.

Jordan Robinson, 6’8, PF/C Quality Education Academy (NC), 2013- Quality Education just came up short against Huntington Prep and there was no bigger reason than the play of Jordan Robinson. Throwing around his massive body inside, Robinson was able to get buckets in the post against Huntington Prep game changer Moses Kingsley through a series of fluid post moves and pump fakes. Still wide open in his recruitment and playing for a stacked QEA team, expect Robinson’s recruitment to pick up as the season goes on.

Alex Owens, 6’8, PF, Oldsmar Christian (FL), 2015- Owens was hands down the most dominant defensive player from day one, controlling the glass and manning the interior as a shot-blocker. Owens showed that he’s a lot more athletic than people give him credit for, made nice passes out of the high post, and finished with a number of powerful dunks. The #1 sophomore lived up to his rep and then some, and should be a guy to hit the 2015 national rankings as they expand.

Troy Holston, 6’5 SG/SF, Oldsmar Christian (FL), 2014- Holston got to the rim with ease in transition and shot the ball well from three. Despite losing a close game to Kennedy Charter, Holston left a lasting impression on fans and scouts alike. The smooth wing used his size and skill to create shots for himself throughout the game.

Shelton Mitchell, 6’3, PG, Cuthbertson HS (NC), 2014- Despite playing limited minutes in Cuthbertson’s blowout win over Davidson Day! Mitchell was able to take home game MVP honors. The big lead guard controlled the tempo of the game, made some great passes in half court sets, and finished through contact. It was an easy morning for one of the nation’s elite junior point guards, who will be at it again at 8pm Saturday night against North Rowan.

Malcolm Matthews, 6’9, C, South Mecklenburg HS(NC), 2013- I had heard about a 6’9 kid that South Meck had for a while, but always seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Getting my first glimpse of him, I could certainly see what all of the intrigue was about within my first few minutes of observing him. Still an unfinished product, things weren’t made any easier on Matthews with his guards literally struggling to get the ball across half court the majority of the game. Matthews was able to show his outstanding length, ability to run the floor, and finish above the rim in addition to his solid timing defensively. Malcolm is the type of guy who can flourish as the game is made easier for him, so he is definitely a name to keep in the back of your mind for once he hits college and is paired with better facilitators.